If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, there is a chance that you will suffer some type of injury. Some injuries are more common than others, and it is important to be aware of them so that you can seek medical attention if necessary.
Head injuries
There are several different types of head injuries that can occur in a car accident. The most serious is a traumatic brain injury, which can lead to long-term problems or even death. Other head injuries include concussions, skull fractures, and bruising. Some of the most common symptoms of head injuries include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Neck injuries
The neck is very susceptible to injury in a car accident because of the way it is positioned. The most common type of neck injury is whiplash, which occurs when the head is jerked forward and then backward suddenly. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. Other neck injuries include brachial plexus injuries and cervical spine fractures.
Back injuries
Back injuries are also common in motor vehicle accidents, and they can range from mild to severe. The most common type of back injury is a sprain or strain, which occurs when the ligaments or muscles are stretched beyond their normal range of motion. This can cause pain, stiffness and limited mobility. More serious back injuries include herniated discs and spinal cord injuries.
Chest injuries
Chest injuries can occur when the chest strikes the steering wheel, seatbelt or another object in the car. The most common type of chest injury is a contusion, which is a bruise. This can be painful, but is usually not serious. More serious chest injuries include rib fractures and internal bleeding.
Whiplash
The muscles and ligaments in the neck can get stretched beyond their normal range of motion in a car accident. When this happens, it is called whiplash. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness and limited range of motion. It can also lead to problems with memory, concentration and sleep.
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to understand that these and other potential injuries may not be immediately apparent. It is always a good idea to seek medical attention after an accident, even if you feel fine.